Because only together we can

build a world where all of today's youth are safe, strong & valued

Making a Real Difference in People’s Lives

Spotlight UK started in April 2009.  We started out to provide low cost activities to help increase confidence and self esteem to children and young people across Basingstoke.  However this vision quickly grew and we were able to provide emotional and practical support as well as enjoyable and fun activities to hundreds of children and young people every year.

In 2024 Spotlight launched ‘Spotlight UK Scarlett’s Smiles’ to support children who have a parent or sibling who has a terminal illness or long term illness, children with terminal illness or long term medical condition, children in care, young carers and adult carers, children who have experienced traumatic loss or separation, and children affected by domestic abuse.

The inspiration behind Scarlett’s Smiles

WHAT WE DO

Membership and Mailing List

In order to keep our activities available to all, we have implemented a membership program. Standard membership is FREE to join. Gold membership is a one off annual fee per person at £7.50 which means you will receive the discount from venues plus top up subsidised discount from Spotlight for activities as well as offers of free and discounted days out and trips when they arise based on first come first served.

Discounted Children & Family Activities

Spotlight UK wants to provide new positive memories and quality family time. We provide trips and days out to things like bowling, paddle boarding, trampolining, Chessington and Four Kingdoms.

Scarlett's Smiles Christmas Appeals

Christmas is a time of giving and helping others. We believe this wholeheartedly and run a number of appeals at Christmas time, including hampers, toy drives and stockings for the elderly.

Scarlett's Smiles Care Package Scheme

This is where we collect and buy supplies to create various boxes of gifts that we send to children and families who need a pick me up and a reminder that every deserves a little love.

Scarlett's Smiles Young Carers Network

A young carer is a child or young person under the age of 25 that cares for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.
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Scarlett's Smiles Special Experiences

We want to provide special experiences for those struggling with disability and illness, to create new positive memories in peoples lives.

Scarlett's Smiles Sponsored Activities

We provide sponsored activities like bowling, laser tag and trampolining to children affected by loss, separation and mental health issues.

Scarlett's Smiles Emergency Supplies

For those suffering from domestic abuse, neglect and low income, we provide clothes, beds and other emergency supplies to help ease troubles.

Making a difference in local communities

In April 2009, Spotlight started to provide free and low-cost activities for young people in Basingstoke, helping them increase confidence and self-esteem. It wasn’t long before the vision grew and founder Michaela could look to expand.  

In addition to fun activities for young people, we also provide emotional and practical support where needed – a crucial aspect of supporting mentally healthy youngsters.  

Thanks to a small army of volunteers, local business support and a growing need, we have continued to expand and now work across the following areas:

  • Basingstoke and Deane  
  • West Berkshire  
  • Reading  
  • Bracknell 
  • Hart and Rushmoor  
  • Portsmouth 
  • Gosport 
  • Havant 
  • East Hampshire 
  • Test Valley 
  • Fareham
  • Southampton 
  • Surrey
  • New Forest

We believe everyone should have a chance to fulfil their potential

Regardless of your race, religion, ability, family status or financial background, every child should be treated equally.  

We believe:

  • Each child should have chances that will allow them to flourish mentally, physically and emotionally.  
  • Each child should have opportunities to develop their confidence, self-esteem and social interaction.  
  • Each child should have access to fun activities regardless of their household income  
  • Each child should know that there are people to turn to and that they have support to guide them through life’s challenges  


IMPACT STORIES

Jessica’s Story

I am Jessica and I am 10 years old. This is my story which I now feel safe enough to share thanks to the team at Spotlight, social services and my new parents. 

Caring for Macy

Macy aged 8, was selective mute after witnessing domestic abuse between her dad and her mum. She would cry herself to sleep.  Lacking confidence and low self esteem. Spotlight has funded Macy to attend…

support us and change the course of a child’s life today!

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